The phrase "to expect a return" means to anticipate or hope for some benefit, advantage or gain in exchange for an action taken or an investment made. It implies that there is an expectation that something will be received in return for what has been given up or invested. This could refer to financial returns such as interest on an investment or profits from a business venture, but it can also apply to non-financial returns like recognition or satisfaction. The phrase suggests a sense of entitlement based on the effort or resources that have been put in and is often used when discussing business decisions or investments.